GS Question

India's decision to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh in 1971 was driven by a combination of strategic, humanitarian, and domestic compulsions.

1. Strategic reasons: India's support for the separation of East Pakistan and the emergence of Bangladesh was primarily driven by its strategic calculations. The issue of refugees pouring into India from East Pakistan placed a significant burden on India's economy and resources. Moreover, the political instability and military crackdown in East Pakistan threatened India's security, as it provided a fertile ground for anti-India forces to operate. By supporting the Bengali separatists, India aimed to create a friendly and stable neighbor on its eastern border.

2. Humanitarian concerns: The scale of human rights abuses perpetrated against the Bengali population by the West Pakistani military during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War was catastrophic. Reports of mass killings, rapes, and forced displacements created immense humanitarian pressure on India. India's intervention was driven by a desire to protect the Bengali population from these atrocities and provide them with the chance to create a separate nation where they could exercise their rights and freedom.

3. Domestic political considerations: India's decision to intervene in the Bangladesh liberation struggle also had domestic political implications. The ruling Indian National Congress party under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi faced significant challenges domestically, including political unrest, economic issues, and allegations of authoritarianism. Supporting the creation of Bangladesh helped India divert attention from these domestic challenges and boost its image as a regional power.

4. Geopolitical factors: India also had geopolitical interests in the region that contributed to its decision to play a decisive role. The emergence of Bangladesh provided India with an opportunity to diminish Pakistan's dominance in the region and assert Indian influence. Additionally, it aligned with India's desire to position itself as a leader of the non-aligned movement and enhance its global image.

However, India's decision to intervene in the Bangladesh Liberation War was not without risks and criticisms. It triggered a direct military conflict with Pakistan and strained India's relations with powerful countries like the United States and China, which supported Pakistan during the war. India's intervention was seen by many as an infringement on the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of other nations.

In conclusion, India's compulsions to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh were primarily driven by strategic concerns, humanitarian considerations, domestic political considerations, and geopolitical factors. While India's actions had several justifications, they also carried risks and criticisms.